There is a real crisis of leadership in Iraq -- with double standards and double
speak on human rights, Amnesty International said today.

"The latest evidence of torture and ill-treatment emerging from Abu Ghraib
prison will exacerbate an already fragile situation. The prison was notorious
under Saddam Hussein -- it should not be allowed to become so again. Iraq has
lived under the shadow of torture for far too long. The Coalition leadership
must send a clear signal that torture will not be tolerated under any circumstances
and that the Iraqi people can now live free of such brutal and degrading practices,"
Amnesty International said.

"There must be a fully independent, impartial and public investigation
into all allegations of torture. Nothing less will suffice. If Iraq is to have
a sustainable and peaceful future, human rights must be a central component
of the way forward. The message must be sent loud and clear that those who abuse
human rights will be held accountable.

"Our extensive research in Iraq suggests that this is not an isolated
incident. It is not enough for the USA to react only once images have hit the
television screens".

Amnesty International has received frequent reports of torture or other ill-treatment
by Coalition Forces during the past year. Detainees have reported being routinely
subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment during arrest and detention.
Many have told Amnesty International that they were tortured and ill-treated
by US and UK troops during interrogation. Methods often reported include prolonged
sleep deprivation; beatings; prolonged restraint in painful positions, sometimes
combined with exposure to loud music; prolonged hooding; and exposure to bright
lights. Virtually none of the allegations of torture or ill-treatment has been
adequately investigated by the authorities.

Amnesty International is calling for investigations into alleged abuses by
Coalition Forces to be conducted by a body that is competent, impartial and
independent, and seen to be so, and that any findings of such investigations
be made public. In addition reparation, including compensation, must be paid
to the victims or to their families.